Who we are

About Us

Our Mission
Lioness Cares Foundation is committed to empowering communities in Togo and across Africa by fostering sustainable development in education, health, social welfare, and cultural preservation. We believe that every individual deserves access to quality education, proper healthcare, and the opportunity to thrive. Through our programs, we provide essential resources such as school supplies, infrastructure renovations, medical assistance, and social support to underserved populations, ensuring a lasting and meaningful impact.

Our Work
Our initiatives are designed to address pressing community needs while promoting long-term growth and self-sufficiency. We organize school kit distributions, support orphanages with food and clothing, implement health awareness campaigns, and advocate for economic empowerment through skills training and entrepreneurship. By collaborating with local organizations, volunteers, and international partners, we create sustainable solutions that uplift communities and inspire hope for a better future.

Our Vision
At Lioness Cares Foundation, we envision a world where no child is deprived of education, no community lacks access to healthcare, and cultural heritage is preserved and celebrated. As we continue to grow, our focus remains on expanding our programs, securing strategic partnerships, and increasing our outreach to maximize our impact. Join us in making a difference—together, we can build stronger communities and transform lives for generations to come.

Meet the Team

  • A. Clarisse Akuesson

    FOUNDER & PRESIDENT

    Clarisse Akuesson is the visionary Founder and President of Lioness Cares Foundation, a role she embraces with unwavering passion and purpose. As a proud United States Marine Veteran, Clarisse’s journey is marked by resilience, service, and a deep commitment to creating positive change.

    During her time in the Marine Corps, Clarisse served as a Finance Technician, where she developed her strong foundation in financial management, discipline, and leadership. Her dedication to service continued as she pursued her academic journey, earning a Bachelor’s degree in International Business and a Master’s degree in International Relations — both reflecting her global mindset and commitment to building bridges between communities.

    For over five years, Clarisse has excelled in the International Development industry, where she has worked in diverse roles, including F&A Operations Associate, Operations Manager, Business Development Associate, and Program Manager. In these roles, she has contributed to impactful projects that uplift communities, strengthen organizations, and create sustainable change.

    Driven by her Togolese heritage and inspired by the strength of her community, Clarisse founded Lioness Cares Foundation with a mission to empower vulnerable populations in Togo and across Africa. Her unwavering belief that every child deserves access to education, every family deserves dignity, and every community deserves opportunities for growth fuels her relentless dedication to the Foundation’s mission.

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  • Hariella Lawson-Hogban

    PROGRAM MANAGER (U.S.)

    Hariella Lawson serves as the U.S. Program Manager for Lioness Cares Foundation, bringing a wealth of experience in storytelling, advocacy, and global development. With a strong background working with international NGOs, Hariella has supported impactful initiatives across countries such as Senegal and Kenya, focusing on child protection and gender-based violence prevention. Her experiences have fueled her passion for advocacy, purpose-driven storytelling, and ensuring marginalized voices are heard.

    Born and raised in Newark, NJ, to Togolese immigrant parents, Hariella’s cultural background deeply informs her work. She is committed to bridging cultural gaps and preserving legacies, blending determination, collaboration, and creativity to drive meaningful change.

    In addition to her professional expertise, Hariella channels her passion for storytelling through content creation, using it as a platform to inspire and connect with others. Grounded in her faith, she is dedicated to empowering communities and creating lasting impact through her work with Lioness Cares Foundation.

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  • Kenina Bonner

    CONTROLLER (U.S.)

    Kenina Bonner serves as the Controller (U.S.) for Lioness Cares Foundation, bringing extensive experience in financial management and leadership. As a dedicated United States Marine, Kenina has served for over a decade as a Finance Technician/Disburser, where she managed financial operations, ensured accurate disbursements, and maintained accountability in high-pressure environments.

    Throughout her military career, Kenina held multiple leadership roles, including serving as a Marine Drill Instructor, where she mentored and trained recruits, instilling discipline, resilience, and strong values. Her diverse experiences in leadership and financial oversight have equipped her with the skills to manage budgets, track expenses, and ensure financial transparency at Lioness Cares Foundation.

    Kenina holds a degree in Accounting, combining her technical expertise with a deep commitment to serving her community. In her role as Controller, she plays a vital role in ensuring the Foundation’s financial stability, supporting its mission to empower vulnerable communities through impactful programs and initiatives.

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  • Manuela Degboevi

    MARKETING & COMMUNICATION MANAGER (U.S.)

    Manuela Degboevi serves as the Marketing & Communication Manager for Lioness Cares Foundation. A proud Togolese student pursuing a major in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, and Bioinformatics with a minor in Healthcare Administration, Manuela combines her academic background with her passion for community service. Driven by a strong desire to give back to the community that shaped her, she plays a vital role in promoting the Foundation’s mission. Through her creative marketing efforts, Manuela effectively highlights LCF’s initiatives, ensuring its impactful work reaches and inspires a broader audience.

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    DEVELOPMENT & FUNDRAISING MANAGER

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    EVENTS MANAGER

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    PROGRAM MANAGER (TOGO)

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    FiNANCE & LOGISTICS MANAGER (TOGO)

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  • Hilary Aaba Evissou

    COMMUNITY LIAISON (TOGO)

    Passionate about social work and committed to supporting vulnerable communities, Hilary Aaba Evissou actively works to assist orphans, underprivileged families, and the elderly. She is a second-year Social Assistance student at the National School of Social Training (ENFS), where she is gaining in-depth knowledge in social support and community engagement. Through her various field internships within vulnerable communities in Togo, Hilary has developed valuable expertise in social intervention, active listening, and assisting those in need. As a children’s ministry instructor, she combines her social commitment with an educational and humanitarian approach, making her an essential part of Lioness Cares Foundation.

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    MONITORING & EVALUATION MANAGER (TOGO)

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    VOLUNTEERS COORDINATOR (TOGO)

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Board of Directors

  • Akpedje Haden

    Board Member

    With a deep passion for healthcare and community well-being, Akpedje Haden brings invaluable experience to Lioness Cares Foundation, particularly in our health programs. She studied and worked as a midwife in Togo for nearly a decade, providing essential maternal and newborn care before moving to the United States, where she transitioned into a career as a Business Test Analyst. Her extensive background in the healthcare sector in Togo gives her a unique perspective on the challenges faced by vulnerable communities, allowing her to contribute strategic insights and practical solutions to our initiatives. As a member of the Board of Directors, Akpedje remains dedicated to improving health access and outcomes for those in need.

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  • Adote Guy Akuesson

    Board Member

    Adote Guy Akuesson brings extensive experience in accounting, management, and community service to Lioness Cares Foundation. A trained Accountant and Manager, he previously worked as an Accountant at CFAO-Togo and later served as Director of SENAFRICA Promotion and Manager of CFAO-Sokodé.

    Throughout his career, Adote has been actively involved in social initiatives, working with GERDES-Togo and participating as a member of both the Jeune Chambre Économique du Togo and Junior Chamber International (JCI). After moving to the United States, he became a founding member of the Association des Togolais et Alliés in Pennsylvania, where he served as Vice President, Treasurer, and Board Member.

    Now retired, Adote is committed to giving back to his community and dedicating his time to impactful causes. His wealth of experience, combined with his dedication to social change, makes him a valuable asset to the Lioness Cares Foundation Board of Directors.

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  • Eloge Teko-Folly

    Board Member

    Eloge Teko-Folly serves as a dedicated Board Member for Lioness Cares Foundation, bringing extensive expertise in financial services, investment banking, and strategic management. As an experienced consultant, Eloge has a strong background in the creation and development of financial services through his work with ALYECA Consulting.

    With proven skills in Risk ALM Management, Project Management, Financial Analysis, and Leadership, Eloge combines technical knowledge with strategic thinking to drive impactful results. His entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to innovation have been key to his success in guiding businesses toward sustainable growth.

    Eloge holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Management from Dauphine University, equipping him with the expertise to navigate complex financial landscapes. As a valued member of the Lioness Cares Foundation Board, Eloge leverages his financial acumen and strategic insight to support the Foundation’s mission of empowering vulnerable communities and creating sustainable change.

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  • Wilfried K. Letsou

    Board Member
    Wilfried Letsou serves as a dedicated Board Member for Lioness Cares Foundation, bringing extensive experience in Information Technology and a strong commitment to community service. With over 20 years of experience in the IT industry, Wilfried combines technical expertise with a passion for innovation and problem-solving. He holds a Master’s degree in Data Science and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Computational Science Informatics, demonstrating his dedication to continuous learning and advancing knowledge.

    In addition to his professional achievements, Wilfried is also a Pastor, committed to uplifting and empowering others through faith, mentorship, and community engagement. His blend of technical expertise and compassionate leadership makes him a valuable asset to Lioness Cares Foundation, where he supports the organization's mission to create positive change in underserved communities.

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  • Imelda M. Haden-Ihou

    Board Member

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Volunteer TODAY!!!

Join us in making a difference! Volunteer with Lioness Cares Foundation and help empower communities through education, health, social welfare, and cultural preservation. Together, we can create lasting change!